"The helicopter was circling around the fire and within the next couple of minutes I saw it. It was landing on purpose, but it sounded like a little maybe in distress. But then shortly there after a rescue came in and was wanting to know how to get back there," said Earnest Richardson Junior.

Harrison County Fire Marshal Pat Sullivan is assisting the investigators with their initial assessments. "It's a thorough, long-term investigation to look at all factors and interview everybody who may have information," Chief Sullivan told WLOX News.

Harrison County Coroner Gary Hargrove said the pilot, Brandon Ricks, 40, of Oklahoma died of smoke inhalation. The other man killed in the crash, Steven W. Cobbs, 55, of Wiggins died of multiple blunt force trauma.

“Our hearts go out to the families of Brandon Ricks and Steve Cobb in this very difficult time,” Bushnell said in a statement. “We also are keeping Brendan and his family in our thoughts and prayers for a full recovery.”

“Once the wreckage has been recovered, we will begin to investigate the man, the machine and the environment. This includes the archived information, pilot information in particular, including any certificates or ratings that he held,” said investigator, Stein.

The National Transportation Safety Board concluded the helicopter experienced a “loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined”. The helicopter did not catch fire when it hit the ground, but it was soon ignited by the spreading prescribed fire, hampering the NTSB investigation.

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The U.S. Forest Service was set to burn 800 acres of forest in the Desoto National Forest. One of the helicopters working with crews during this time crashed, resulting in at two deaths and one injury. The injured person was airlifted to USA Medical Center in Mobile, Alabama. No more information is known. Check back for updates.